New outdoor play exhibits that over the science hidden beneath your feet at Winchester Science Centre

New Outdoor Exhibits

Winchester Science Centre, Winchester

What's On in Hampshire

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Hampshire is ready to welcome you for an unforgettable year of culture, coast and great days out. Whether you love historic cities, family‑friendly attractions or beautiful countryside, you’ll find plenty of Hampshire events to enjoy across the county in every season.

Hampshire Events

From city celebrations and outdoor festivals to family attractions and seasonal events, Hampshire offers an exciting calendar of events throughout 2026. This autumn in Portsmouth, the city celebrates its 100th anniversary, with the return of the colourful International Kite Festival filling the skies above Southsea Common (F) 12 - 13 September, whilst in November, We Shine returns, with light illuminations and displays from 19 - 21 November (F). In Winchester, its the fantastic annual torchlight procession and fireworks display that is a must for the diary, (7 November) filling the streets of this historic town with families, friends, visitors and residents alike, whilst in Basingstoke there's a whole host of spooktacular free family-fun this October half term in the town centre.

Don't miss the chance to enjoy the thrilling Go Ape experience by night this autumn at Itchen Valley Park, Southampton (16 October - 8 November), or miss the UK's biggest Oktoberfest at Southampton Guildhall Square, with music, Bavarian food and a themed marquee (23 - 24 October). Pick up a new autumn wardrode with a visit to John Lewis at WestQuay, or join their upcoming home design talk for some great ideas to refresh your decor (16 October) - a great all-weather day out.  Enjoy the changing of the season with the Jane Austen circular walk, a four and half mile trail that starts from Jane Austen's House and explores some of East Hampshire's beautiful countryside. 

From scenic coastlines and vibrant events to cosy villages, walking trails and excellent places to eat, Hampshire is the ideal destination for a short break or longer escape. Start planning your 2026 summer adventure today and discover some of the county's top events, attractions and experiences. 

15 Day cruise and park package with Voco Winchester Hotel and Spa

What's on in Hampshire in September, October and November?

Grab your calendar and take a look at what's happening in Hampshire over the coming months with our featured events list or scroll to the bottom and discover hundreds of events happening today, this weekend and across this year. From coastal festivals and city celebrations to countryside walks, food experiences and family attractions, Hampshire offers one of the most varied events calendars in South East England.

Portsmouth Anniversary blog - why visit in 2026

Frequently Asked Questons About Events in Hampshire

What's on in Hampshire today or this weekend?

You can find a wide range of events taking place across Hampshire today and this weekend, including theatre shows, interactive workshops, wildlife experiences and outdoor events in the Hampshire countryside. Use the date filters above, or browse the listings to find lots of inspiration and ideas for something happening near you. Families on a budget can look out for the many free events (Free) taking place. 

Planning to stay overnight after an event?

If you're travelling from outside the county for an event in Hampshire, there are numerous hotels and other accommodation options to suit your needs. Search Hampshire accommodation to plan your stay, whether your choose the coastal city of Portsmouth or Southampton, Winchester - the ancient capital of England - or a more rural stay in Chawton or Alton, East Hampshire.

Are there any family-friendly events in Hampshire?

Yes, Hampshire hosts a wide range of family-friendly events throughout the year, from nature trails, outdoor festivals, science fairs and interactive school holiday activities. Use the 'type filter' in the search box above and choose family to find suitable events. During the summer holidays and key seasonal periods, you'll find even more events designed for children and families, with activities suitable for all ages.

Is Hampshire easy to reach from London by train?

Yes. South Western Railway connects more than 50 stations across Hampshire with London Waterloo, Vauxhall and Clapham Junction making a day trip or weekend break easy from London. Book your rail tickets and enjoy your next event in Hampshire.  

Hampshire Events Near Me

The guide below shows our full calendar of events in Hampshire. Whether you're looking for what's on this weekend or planning further ahead, you'll find plenty of inspiration.  If you're local or visiting Hampshire for the first time, use the 'Map View' button to discover events happening near you.

Some of the events below take place on the Isle of Wight, which is easily accessible by ferry or hovercraft from Portsmouth or Lymington. 

What's on in Hampshire

Number of results:

Number of results: 136

, currently showing 1 to 20.

  1. Portsmouth 100

    Type

    Type:

    Portsmouth 100

    Portsmouth

    In 2026, Portsmouth celebrates its 100th anniversary of becoming a city with a wide round program of events and activities for both visitors and residents to enjoy. Visit the city, join the events and discover more of Portsmouth's fascinating…

    Dates

    From:
    1 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026
  2. Portsmouth International Kite Festival

    Type

    Type:

    Festival

    Southsea

    The 34th Portsmouth International Kite Festival will take place on 12th & 13th September at Southsea Common. Beautiful and awe-inspiring kites will be flying high, flown by some of the world’s most internationally renowned kite flyers from the UK…

    Dates

    From:
    12 Sept 2026to13 Sept 2026
  3. Ryde Hovercraft Experience Flights

    Type

    Type:

    Tour

    Ryde

    For a unique experience only offered on the South Coast, try a Hovercraft Experience Flights on your next visit to Portsmouth or the Isle of Wight

    Dates

    From:
    1 Mar 2026to27 Sept 2026
  4. Artist in Residence Anniversary Exhibition

    Type

    Type:

    Arts

    Sarson Lane, Andover

    Thursday December 3

    Doors open at 6:30pm | Official opening at 7:00pm

    Join the Hawk Conservancy Trust for an evening of drinks and canapes to celebrate the anniversary of the Trust's partnership with official Artist in Residence, Alex McGarry!
    The…

    Dates

    From:
    3 Dec 2026Open 18:30 -
  5. Portsmouth Comic Con

    Type

    Type:

    Festival

    Portsmouth

    Portsmouth Comic Con returns to the Guildhall for 2027 presenting the best in comic, film, TV and pop culture entertainment - a fantastic family-friendly day in Portsmouth, Hampshire.

    Venue

    Portsmouth Guildhall, Portsmouth

    Dates

    From:
    1 May 2027to2 May 2027
  6. Halloween Archery Pumpkin Shooting with New Forest Activities

    Type

    Type:

    Halloween

    Brockenhurst

    We've put a spooky twist on our archery sessions for October, with ghosts, ghouls, zombies and werewolves acting as your new targets. Then it's onto the pumpkin shooting round where your little monsters will get to decorate their pumpkins before…

    Dates

    From:
    24 Oct 2026to31 Oct 2026
  7. Autumn Spooktacular Half Term Fun in Basingstoke

    Autumn Spooktacular Half Term Fun in Basingstoke

    Type

    Type:

    Free Event

    Basingstoke

    Head to Basingstoke, Hampshire this October half term for a host of free fun activities and events for kids from 3 - 13 to enjoy.

    Dates

    From:
    28 Oct 2026to30 Oct 2026Open 11:00 - 15:00
  8. Fireworks Display

    Type

    Type:

    Fireworks

    Portsmouth

    The Portsmouth Fireworks Display returns for 2026, with a spectacular event planned for Southsea Common.

    Dates

    From:
    4 Nov 2026Open 16:00 - 20:00
  9. Mayflower Park Southampton Fireworks

    Type

    Type:

    Fireworks

    Southampton

    Get ready, Southampton... the South Coast’s BIGGEST and most spectacular fireworks night is back for 2026 – and it's going to be an absolute blast! Mayflower Park Fireworks takes place on Saturday 7th November 2026 at Mayflower Park Southampton. 

    Dates

    From:
    7 Nov 2026
  10. Music in the City

    Type

    Type:

    Festival

    Southampton

    Music in the City is Southampton’s premier music event celebrating and promoting the wonderful diversity of musical talent within Southampton City for the benefit of all residents and city visitors.

    Dates

    From:
    12 Sept 2026
  11. Southampton Boat Show

    Type

    Type:

    Show / Display

    Southampton

    Back for its 57th edition, the internationally renowned Southampton Boat Show, Britain's largest marine festival, is returning to Mayflower Park, Southampton. The show will be open from Friday 18th to Sunday 27th September, and promises to have…

    Dates

    From:
    18 Sept 2026to27 Sept 2026Various Opening Times
  12. Awesome Autumn at Birdworld

    Type

    Type:

    Childrens Events

    Farnham

    Head to Birdworld in Surrey this October half term for a fun-filled Professor Peck's Theatre Show mixed with Ground Hornbills, Chilean Flamingo, Snowy Owls, a dinosaur trail, indoor play barn, outdoor treetop adventure park. A great family day out…

    Venue

    Birdworld, Waverley

    Dates

    From:
    24 Oct 2026to1 Nov 2026Open 10:00 - 16:30
  13. Heritage Open Days - WWI Remembrance Centre

    Type

    Type:

    Heritage & History

    Portsmouth

    Take in the personal histories of World War One as part of Heritage Open Days.

    Dates

    From:
    14 Sept 2026to20 Sept 2026
  14. Go Ape at Alice Holt Sundown Adventures

    Type

    Type:

    Participatory Event

    Farnham

    Go Ape Sundown Adventures are back for autumn 2026 at Alice Holt! Get glowing, Go Ape at Night

    Venue

    Go Ape Alice Holt, Surrey

    Dates

    From:
    16 Oct 2026to8 Nov 2026
  15. £10 Sunday Roasts

    Type

    Type:

    Food

    Whiteley, Fareham


    £10 Sunday Roasts

    Available every Sunday from 4th January at The Parsons Collar Pub
    Celebrate Sunday with a tasty £10 treat!
    When they are gone they are gone!
    Book - lodge@solenthotel.co.uk

    Dates

    From:
    4 Jan 2026to31 Dec 2026Open 11:00 - 12:30
  16. Freddie Mercury Tribute Night

    Type

    Type:

    Dance / Dancing

    Whiteley

    Enjoy a fabulous evening of Freddie Mercury tribute music, street food supper, followed by dancing to the lively tunes of our resident DJ.

    Dates

    From:
    11 Sept 2026Open 19:00 - 23:00
  17. Royal Isle of Wight County Show

    Type

    Type:

    Show / Display

    Northwood

    Historic county show on the Isle of Wight The Royal Isle of Wight County Show returns on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 July 2027. With a history dating back to 1833, the event has long been a showcase for our island's agricultural heritage, local…

    Dates

    From:
    10 July 2027to11 July 2027
  18. Canoe Halloween Treasure Hunt

    Type

    Type:

    Outdoor Event / Activities

    Brockenhurst

    Treat (not trick) your little swashbucklers to some scarily good fun on the Beaulieu River this Halloween.

    Venue

    New Forest Activities, New Forest

    Dates

    From:
    24 Oct 2026to1 Nov 2026Open 11:00 - 16:00
  19. Milestones Christmas Market

    Type

    Type:

    Christmas

    Churchill Way West, Basingstoke

    Milestones Christmas Market brings together the best of the season, unique gifts, festive food, live music and family fun, all set within the bustling cobbled streets of Milestones.

    Venue

    Milestones Museum, Basingstoke and Deane

    Dates

    From:
    5 Dec 2026Open 10:00 - 19:00
    From:
    6 Dec 2026Open 10:00 - 16:40
  20. Van Gogh Alive

    Type

    Type:

    Show / Display

    Winchester

    Winchester Science Centre welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in the most visited multisensory experience in the world as Van Gogh Alive brings his masterpieces to life, giving you the sensation of being amongst his paintings.

    Dates

    From:
    19 Sept 2026to20 Sept 2026Open 17:00 - 19:00